Downhole Jarring Tool Impact Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge in drilling operations is that predicting and measuring the impact magnitude and parameters of a jarring tool used to dislodge stuck downhole equipment is difficult due to various factors such as depth, elastic properties, and friction forces, making surface sensors unreliable for assessing the actual impact at the downhole location.
Innovation Solution
A single downhole tool integrating an impact-generating section and an impact-sensing section, which includes a jarring tool with adjustable impact forces based on detected electrical characteristics, allowing for real-time measurement and adjustment of impact forces to effectively dislodge stuck equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If surface sensors are used to measure impact magnitude, then measurement can be performed remotely, but measurement precision deteriorates due to multiple interfering factors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the measurement function from the surface and places it directly at the impact location downhole. By removing the sensor from the surface environment and installing it at the downhole location, the measurement is performed at the source of the impact, eliminating the transmission of signals through the complex conveyance means and wellbore environment that cause measurement errors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a downhole sensor as an intermediary device that directly detects the impact at its location. This intermediary sensor serves as a bridge between the impact event and the measurement system, providing accurate local measurements that can then be transmitted to the surface through the conveyance means.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed impact force is applied by jarring tool, then operation is simple, but adaptability deteriorates when equipment needs vary
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the jarring tool dynamic by enabling adjustment of the impact force magnitude based on detected electrical characteristics. The system can modify its operation in real-time, transitioning from a fixed impact force mechanism to an adjustable one that adapts to different downhole conditions and equipment states.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of impact force from a fixed value to an adjustable variable. By detecting electrical characteristics such as resistance or conductivity changes in the conveyance means, the system adjusts the impact force parameter to match the actual downhole conditions, optimizing the dislodging effect.
3Reliability
If conventional jarring tool without sensing is used, then device complexity is low, but reliability of dislodging operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by equipping the jarring tool with sensors that detect electrical characteristics of the conveyance means and the impact itself. This feedback information is used to adjust the impact force and monitor the dislodging process, ensuring that the operation is effective and preventing damage from excessive force.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces purely mechanical operation with a system that incorporates electrical sensing and control. By using electrical characteristics to detect and adjust the jarring process, the system achieves more precise and reliable control compared to traditional mechanical-only approaches.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables precise and reliable dislodging of stuck downhole equipment by adjusting impact forces based on real-time sensing, improving the effectiveness of jarring operations and reducing the risk of equipment damage.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor system disposed within the second bore of the lower housing and comprising an accelerometer for detecting acceleration caused by an impact generated by movement of the upper housing away from the lower housing until corresponding impact features of the upper and lower housings collide
Implementation Method 2
an impact-generating section comprising: an upper housing connected to an upper portion of the downhole tool string; a lower housing connected to a lower portion of the downhole tool string; and a shaft coupled to the lower housing and extending into the upper housing, wherein, upon sufficient tension being applied across the downhole tool string, the upper housing moves relative to the lower housing along the shaft until corresponding impact features of the upper and lower housings collide and generate an impact imparted to the downhole tool string
Data Source
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AI summary
A jarring tool operable for coupling within and generating an impact imparted to a downhole tool string. The jarring tool includes an upper housing, a lower housing, and a shaft coupled with the lower housing and extending into the upper housing. The upper housing moves axially relative to the lower housing along the shaft. The jarring tool also includes an accelerometer for detecting acceleration caused by an impact generated by movement of the upper housing away from the lower housing until corresponding impact features of the upper and lower housings collide.